True Grit Spinal Cord Program
Our Mission: To provide hope, healing, and inspiration to adolescents and young adults with spinal cord injuries
Sustaining a spinal cord injury (SCI) is life-altering at any age, but particularly for teenagers who are discovering who they are and who they want to become. True Grit SCI serves teens and young adults once they are discharged from the hospital by being a comprehensive support system navigating the transition to adulthood. In collaboration with Rutgers University School of Health Professions, we host a week-long sleepaway program in the Rutgers dorms as well as events throughout the year. Our team consists of expert clinicians in occupational, physical, and recreational therapy, nursing, and peer mentors.
We provide goal-directed therapy to increase independence, opportunities to try adaptive sports and leisure activities, new adapted devices, support to pursue further education or to enter the workforce, and education on SCI topics relevant to this age group. Attending True Grit offers a safe experience in staying away from home while experiencing and problem-solving “college-life”. Assistance will be provided to any attendee requiring help with self-care needs. We are committed to evaluating what is most meaningful to each participant and providing that specific support or opportunity.
- Does not require use of respiratory supports
- Medical stability with physician clearance for participation
- Use of wheelchair as primary means of mobility
- History of spinal cord injury/dysfunction
- Age 16-21
- Able to use upper extremity (arm/hand) to operate wheelchair
- Candidates who are motivated to achieve personal goals and experience new activities.
Contact our SCI Clinical Coordinator, Kassandra Boyd, kboyd@childrens-specialized.org to apply for Summer 2025 or with any questions.
